How to Hang Rope Lights in Your Windows

Rope lights formed in the shape of a tree.

Rope lights are a type of lighting that is encased in PVC tubing. The lights are easy to mount with a variety of hangers, including screw-in and suction options. Rope lights are available in many colors and types of wiring, and some have "chasing" features often employed in holiday displays. Before purchasing rope lights, measure the inside perimeter of your window. Purchase rope light as long or longer than your the measurement. Quality rope lights can be cut to fit specific applications, although UL standard safety ratings are no longer applicable once lights are cut.

Things You'll Need

• End cap
• Rope light mounting clip kit
• Screwdriver
• Corner connectors
• Scissors
• Power connector

Instructions

1. Place an end cap over the end of the rope light. String the light along the inside window sill, starting in one corner.

2. Mount a clip 2 inches away from the window's corner. Screw through the mounting clip with the provided wood screws. Continue mounting clips along both sides and the top of the window, evenly spaced every 8 to 14 inches.

3. Insert your rope light in the clips, keeping the end cap is in the bottom corner of the window. Run the light horizontally, clipping it inside each clip. Bend the corner gently before clipping up and over and down the last side. If your rope runs long, go past the window sill to the next safe cut place. Cut the rope light.

4. Connect the power connector to the power cord by screwing the two pieces together. Slide the threaded rope light fastener into the cut end of the rope light. Push the sharp prongs of the connector into the wires of the cut rope light until you reach the stop. Tighten the threaded cap over the connection.

Tips & Warnings

• Rope light can be cut with scissors every 18 inches. If you look closely on the casing, you should see a scissor icon where it is safe to cut. Many distributors of rope lights carry corner connectors, but these will only work if your cuts fit the 18-inch measurements. Otherwise, you'll need to bend the corners.

• For exterior visibility around the window, you can mount the rope lights in much the same way on the outside of the window trim. The plastic mounting clips will work just as well outdoors. You may need to apply silicone to connector areas in order to prevent water intrusion.

References

• Birddog Dist: Rope Light Installation
• Birddog Dist.: Rope Light Mounting Clips